Ilia Topuria is looking invincible. After flooring Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, Topuria has now knocked out Charles Oliveira. While most critics thought this would be a tough fight, Topuria was done within the first three minutes. Now, looking at his impeccable dominance, it seems like stopping him is impossible at the moment. But renowned UFC coach, Javier Mendez has one name that can make Topuria have significant problems. And that is none other than Arman Tsarukyan.
Speaking on an episode of ‘Submission Radio,’ Mendez stated that Tsarukyan has what it takes to defeat Topuria. Analyzing his fighting style, Mendez stressed the Armenian’s grappling skills. Mendez pointed out that Tsarukyan is clever enough not to stand up and box with Topuria. Instead, he will be taking ‘El Matador’ to ground and trying to control the proceedings. And this is something that Topuria hasn’t faced yet in the UFC.
“Arman Tsarukyan would be the one to give him the most problems because Arman’s not going to stand with him. Arman’s gonna make it a grappling war. Can Ilia survive the continuous ground attack that Arman’s gonna put on him? That would be the test,” said Mendez.
Javier Mendez believes Arman Tsarukyan is the only fighter who can give Ilia Topuria problems at lightweight 💥😳
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 29, 2025
"Arman Tsarukyan would be the one to give him the most problems because Arman's not going to stand with him. Arman's gonna make it a grappling war. Can Ilia survive… pic.twitter.com/NebwKfMWDy
Tsarukyan has already proved that he can be a menace. Fighting in UFC 300, Tsarukyan impressed against Charles Oliveira. Coming out of a submission early on, the Armenian dominated the bout to get his shot at the title. Now then, despite the stronger calls, Topuria is reluctant to give him the title shot.
Ilia Topuria Makes Intentions Known About Arman Tsarukyan
Arman Tsarukyan was the backup fighter for the UFC 317 main event. With Topuria winning, Tsarukyan has been hyped as a potential contender. But Topuria is not ready to give him the shot right now. Topuria stated that Tsarukyan needs to fight either Paddy Pimblett or Justin Gaethje. This way, he can prove himself and then come for the title.
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“I wouldn’t give him the chance immediately. He needs to win one more fight. He had the opportunity to fight for the title and he pulled out, so he needs to earn his shot against someone like Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett. They need to fight each other,” Topuria stated.
Thus, with a lot of excitement building, what happens next remains to be seen.
